things to do in cairo

Cairo, the vibrant capital of Egypt, is a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Here are some top things to do in Cairo:

Historical Landmarks:

1. Pyramids of Giza: No trip to Cairo is complete without visiting the Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
2. The Great Sphinx: Located near the Pyramids, the Great Sphinx is a mysterious and awe-inspiring monument.
3. Egyptian Museum: Home to the world’s largest collection of ancient Egyptian artifacts, including mummies, sarcophagi, and other treasures.
4. Islamic Cairo: Explore the narrow streets and bustling markets of Islamic Cairo, a historic neighborhood filled with mosques, madrasas, and other Islamic landmarks.
5. Khan el-Khalili Market: One of the oldest and most famous bazaars in the Middle East, Khan el-Khalili is a must-visit for shopping and haggling.

Cultural Experiences:

1. Take a Nile River Cruise: Relax on a luxurious cruise along the Nile River, taking in the city’s sights and sounds from a different perspective.
2. Attend a traditional Arabic coffee ceremony: Experience the warm hospitality of the Egyptians by attending a traditional coffee ceremony.
3. Visit a local mosque: Learn about Islamic culture and traditions by visiting a local mosque, such as the Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha.
4. Watch a traditional belly dance performance: Enjoy the mesmerizing rhythms and movements of traditional Egyptian belly dancing.
5. Take a cooking class: Learn how to prepare traditional Egyptian dishes, such as koshari and falafel.

Outdoor Activities:

1. Explore the Citadel of Cairo: This medieval fortress offers stunning views of the city and is home to several historic landmarks, including the Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha.
2. Visit the Hanging Church: This ancient church is one of the oldest in Egypt and offers breathtaking views of the city.
3. Take a stroll along the Nile River: Enjoy the scenic views of the Nile River and the city’s skyline.
4. Visit the Cairo Tower: For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Cairo Tower, a 360-degree observation deck.
5. Go shopping at the Mall of Arabia: This modern shopping mall offers a range of international brands and a variety of dining options.

Day Trips:

1. Alexandria: Visit the ancient city of Alexandria, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its historic landmarks, including the Citadel of Qaitbay and the Bibliotheca Alexandrina.
2. Saqqara: Explore the ancient necropolis of Saqqara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see the Step Pyramid of Djoser.
3. Abu Simbel: Visit the ancient temples of Abu Simbel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at their grandeur.
4. St. Catherine’s Monastery: Visit the ancient monastery of St. Catherine’s, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore its stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.
5. The White Desert: Take a day trip to the White Desert, a unique and breathtaking natural wonder.

Tips and Essentials:

1. Haggling is expected: When shopping at markets, be prepared to haggle over prices.
2. Dress modestly: When visiting mosques or other Islamic landmarks, dress modestly and remove your shoes when required.
3. Stay hydrated: Cairo can be hot and dry, so make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
4. Respect local customs: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or other Islamic landmarks.
5. Learn some Arabic phrases: Learning a few basic Arabic phrases, such as "hello" (marhaba) and "thank you" (shukraan), can go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable.